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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Articles in this section

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      Order Kit

       

      How does it work?

      1. Ordering your kit
      Decide how many surfaces you want to test. Each kit is for one property and one use only. You’ll need one sample per surface.
      Example: Kitchen ceiling, kitchen floor tiles, and dining room ceiling = 3-sample kit.

      2. After checkout
      Your kit is dispatched within 24 hours. When it arrives, check all contents against the instruction manual before starting.

      3. Read the instructions carefully
      The manual explains how to use the kit safely. Following the steps is essential — mistakes may cause delays or prevent processing. Pay extra attention to the PPE section (FFP3 mask included in the full kit).

      4. Taking your samples
      Use basic tools such as a chisel, knife, or pliers depending on the material. Full guidance is provided in the manual.

      5. Completing the form
      Seal each sample in the provided bags and fill out the submission form. Be sure to include your sample reference number (from kit registration) to avoid delays.

      6. Sending your samples
      Place the completed form and sealed samples in the return envelope. The lab address is provided at registration. We recommend using a tracked service.

      7. Lab processing & results
      You’ll get a text once the lab receives your samples. Results are emailed within 72 hours as a PDF certificate, complete with an explanation of findings.

      Do I have asbestos in my home?

      Asbestos use in homes peaked between 1945–1975, during the post-war housing boom.

      Common household asbestos materials include:

      • Attic insulation (vermiculite/Zonolite)

      • Vinyl floor tiles & adhesives

      • Popcorn/textured ceilings

      • Cement siding & roof shingles

      • Drywall joint compound & plaster

      • Pipe & boiler insulation

      Decline:

      • 1973: Ban on spray-applied insulation

      • 1977: Ban on patching compounds & textured ceiling coatings
        By the mid-1980s, asbestos was mostly phased out of new homes.

      Homes built after 1980?
      Unlikely, but some stockpiled products were still used in the early 1980s. Homes built before 1980 are far more likely to contain asbestos.

      Where is asbestos found in the home?

      Inside:

      • Asbestos cement (water tanks)

      • Loft insulation (loose fill)

      • AIB (ceiling tiles, wall partitions, fire door panels, boiler surrounds)

      • Vinyl floor tiles

      • Fire blankets and textiles

      • Artex/textured coatings

      Outside:

      • Asbestos cement (roof sheets, panels, gutters, downpipes, flues)

      • AIB (soffits)

      [See our guide on identifying asbestos in the home →]

      Is it safe to test suspected materials?

      Yes — our kits are designed for safe DIY sampling, with clear instructions and PPE.
      ⚠️ Do not use the kit for sprayed coatings, contaminated land, or pipe lagging.

      What can I test with this kit?

      Commonly tested items include:

      • Popcorn ceilings / textured coatings (Artex)

      • Corrugated cement roofs & sheets

      • Wall panels and boards

      • Thermoplastic floor tiles & adhesives

      • HVAC lining panels

      • Soffits, fascias & rainwater goods

      • External cladding

      • Boiler flues & water tanks

      • Window sills

      How much material is needed for a sample?

      A small piece (about 1 inch square) is enough for testing.

      How long do results take?

      Results are typically sent within 72 hours of lab receipt.

      • Samples arriving after 2pm Mon–Thu are logged the next working day.

      • Samples arriving after 2pm Friday are logged the following Monday.

      What if my result is positive?

      We can provide advice on next steps by phone or connect you with a local licensed asbestos removal company.

      Is return postage included?

      No — return shipping costs vary by location. This keeps pricing fair.

      Why not include return postage?
      Including it would mean some customers overpay. Instead, you choose your carrier and service level.

      Can I choose my own carrier?
      Yes — FedEx, UPS, USPS, or any tracked courier works.

      Will this slow results?
      No. In fact, you can speed things up by choosing express shipping.

      What are the health risks of asbestos?

      Asbestos exposure can cause:

      • Mesothelioma

      • Lung cancer

      • Asbestosis

      • Pleural thickening

      That’s why testing before renovation is critical. Our kits provide PPE to protect you during sampling.

      What does NVLAP mean?

      National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program — run by NIST in the U.S.

      • Ensures labs meet international standards (ISO/IEC 17025).

      • Covers asbestos fiber analysis, among other disciplines.

      • Accreditation means the lab has been independently assessed for accuracy and reliability.

      How many samples do I need?

      One sample per surface or material.
      Example: Bedroom ceiling + bedroom wall + bathroom floor = 3 samples.

      Each kit is for one property at one time. If testing multiple properties or at different times, order a separate kit.

      If unsure, reach out to our team via the Contact Us page.